Eric Wattree's Blog

How to Protect Yourself When You Suspect Racial Profiling

Eric from Covina, CA — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:08:42 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

How to Protect Yourself When You Suspect Racial Profiling

Well, racial profiling is in the news again.

Prominent Black scholar and Harvard professor Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. was recently arrested after a forced entry into his own home. Dr. Gates alleges that he was arrested for spite after he'd presented his identification, then repeatedly insisted that the officer provide his name and badge number.

Racial profiling cannot be defended. It is a horrible affront to the constitution, the rule of law, and to every law-abiding citizen, but I'm not addressing that issue here. The one issue that is at least as important as racial profiling itself, is how to best protect yourself if you suspect you're the victim of racial profiling. After all, that could become a matter of life and death.

Michael Jackson and America's Superstardom

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 19:23:48 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
Michael Jackson and America's Superstardom

I greatly admired Michael Jackson. I admire anyone who's the very best at what they do, and Michael Jackson was definitely that. I remember when I first heard him. He was doing a tune called "Who's Lovin' You?" He was a mere child at the time, but his talent was so fully developed, and he sang with so much emotional maturity, I mistook the high pitch of his voice to be that of a very soulful adult female. Then later when he did "Billie Jean" at the Motown reunion, he seemed to literally defy gravity as he Moonwalked across the stage. So yes, this young man was, without a doubt, one of the greatest entertainers who ever lived.

But Michael's life - that shooting star that dazzled humanity with its awesome display, only to burn out much too soon - threatens to serve as a perfect metaphor for America itself. The story of the United States parallels that of Michael Jackson. It is also the story of a precocious child star that dazzled humanity with its awesome display. The United States is undoubtedly a superstar among nations, but we must not let hubris allow us to forget that among those very same nations, we are nothing more than a precocious child.

While the United States is 233 years old, that's relatively nothing when it comes to the history of nations. Iran, one of the oldest nations on Earth, is over 8000 years old. That means that when Jesus Christ walked the Earth, Iran was more than 6000 years older than the United States is today, even then. We need to keep that in mind as we formulate the language of our foreign policy, because believe me, it is a fact that has not been lost on the Iranian people.

An Open Response to halliburton

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:27:09 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

An Open Response to Halliburton

Ms. Gabriel,

I’m writing in response to your June 23rd request for an immediate correction to a statement made regarding the Halliburton Corp. in my June 20th article, Healthcare: Why Can't We Get the Congressional Option? Your communication reads as follows:

FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION

The article, “Healthcare: Why Can't We Get the Congressional Option?” posted Saturday, June 20, on The Wattree Chronicle contains information about Halliburton that is completely misleading and incorrect.

Healthcare: Why Can't We Get the Congressional Option?

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:37 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

Healthcare: Why Can't We Get the Congressional Option?

There's at least one thing that Republicans do much better than Democrats, and that's marketing their initiatives. It doesn't matter how regressive the idea, Republicans manage to frame it in a way that if you oppose it you look like you're either degenerate, or at the very least, un-American. For example, instead of accurately calling themselves "The Order of Religious Bigots Dedicated to Shoving Our Version of God Down America's Throat," they market their insanity as "The Moral Majority," and instead of being honest and calling themselves "The Public Vagina Brigade," they call themselves "The Right to Life" proponents (even though they're willing to let that very same life starve to death after it's born). Conservatives get a lot of milage out of their creativity in this area, and progressives would do well to follow suit.

The Republican Vision for America - Divide and Conquer

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:21:09 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

The Republican Vision for America - Divide and Conquer

The current situation in Iran is perfectly analogous to what's going on here in the United States. The vast majority of the people want a common-sense approach to domestic and world politics, while the old guard, stuck in the blind animosities of the past, are determined to promote and exploit those animosities for their own end, and at any cost - including the misery and death of their own people. In Iran the old guard is represented by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad; in the U.S., Dick Cheney and Rush Limbaugh. In Iran they are called jihadist, while in the U.S. we refer to them as the Republican Party.

The Moral Strangulation of America

Eric from Covina, CA — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:34:46 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

The Moral Strangulation of America

In my last article I pointed out that the character of America is being fundamentally changed. In less than two generations we've gone from citizens who were politically engaged and socially aware, to zombies who simply accept what we're being told by our favorite demagogues. We've gone from citizens who held our politicians' feet to the fire, to a group of cattle who allow our politicians to dictate what is, and what isn't, off the table - in spite of our instinctive clamor for the simple adherence to the law. We've allowed politicians to go from representatives with the single mandate of doing our biding, to so-called leaders who dictate to us what's in our best interest. As a direct result, the script has been flipped - we now define what's in the people's best interest by what's in the best interest of the politicians who are supposed to defer us.

A Simple Question: Would God Condone Torture?

Eric from Covina, CA — Fri, 22 May 2009 18:05:14 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

A Simple Question: Would God Condone Torture?

Maybe I'm missing something but I find it uniquely ironic that some the same people who clamor for prayer in school, claim that same-sex marriage is an abomination under God,who insist that America is a Christian nation, and fight for the Biblical version of creationism over science, are also the very same people who demand the right to be armed to the teeth with some of the most destructive private weapons on Earth, the right to slaughter and bring the most excruciating kinds of death upon God's other creatures for nothing more than their own entertainment, and now, condone the torture of other human beings as a legitimate tool of government. Is it just me, or does anyone else see this as the very height of hypocrisy?

Republicans: Stuck in Own Muck

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 12 May 2009 14:24:45 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

Republicans: Stuck in Own Muck

With the Grand Old Party experiencing its most precipitous decline in modern times, the very last thing it needs is a rusty old anchor pulling it down even farther. But that's exactly what it's got as it finds itself helplessly attached to a discredited and unrepentant Dick Cheney. Ironically, previously elusive and camera-shy, now that the former vice president is out of office, no one in the Republican Party seems to be able to shut him up.

Carrie Prejean: Are Progressives Becoming as Intolerant as Conservatives?

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 07 May 2009 22:55:07 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

Carrie Prejean: Are Progressives Becoming as Intolerant as Conservatives?

I've always been proud to consider myself a progressive, because being a progressive meant that I was open-minded, willing to assess every issue on its own merit, and I'm tolerant of varying points of view. But it seems that many of today's "progressives" have corrupted the term. Though many of these people call themselves progressives, they are not progressive thinkers–they are progressive in name only. Over the years they seem to have somehow lost their way, and as a result, have managed to redefined the term "progressive" to simply mean, not conservative.

A case in point is the unconscionable way in which the so-called progressive community has demonized Carrie Prejean after she indicated, almost apologetically during the Miss America Pageant, that she thought marriage should be between a man and a woman. Why in the world did she say that?!! Thereafter, she was called a bitch, seminude photos of her have been posted on the Internet, and she's been generally, dragged through the mud. It is unbelievable that people who call themselves progressive could do that to that young woman.

Accountability: America's Moral Responsibility to Humanity

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 15:51:12 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

Accountability: America's Moral Responsibility to Humanity

Eight years of Republican "leadership" has left America both economically devastated, and globally humiliated. Yet, far from apologizing for the damage that they've done to the stability and image of this great nation, instead, they've circled their wagons and gone into damage control mode–not to control the damage that they've done to the nation, but in an attempt to rewrite history in order to control the damage that they've done to themselves.

So now, as President Obama goes about the business of desperately trying to return America to its former position of economic stability at home, and respect, admiration, and moral authority abroad, the GOP leadership seems to be completely oblivious to the nation's desperate and immediate need for a concerted effort in that regard. They're like clueless children who find it impossible to see the big picture. Thus, at this point it has become abundantly clear that their primary concern is not with restoring America to a sound footing in the world, but rather, simply restoring themselves to power at any cost.

GOP Underestimates Conservative America

Eric from Covina, CA — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 22:06:37 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

GOP Underestimates Conservative America

While President Obama is going about his valiant and statesman-like attempt to rescue America and restore our image at home and abroad, the GOP's politics as usual, diehard operatives are acting like spoiled brats determined to undermine the president's–and America's–effort. But in their blind attempt to regain power they seem to have forgotten one important fact–the vast majority of true conservatives are fiercely loyal Americans, and don't share their view of power at any cost.

How Loyal is the Loyal Opposition?

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 14:32:40 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

How Loyal is the Loyal Opposition?

From this point on I pledge to stop using the terms "conservative" and "Republican" interchangeably. I'm beginning to realize there's a big difference between the two. Conservatives are loyal and well-meaning Americans of good faith who just happen not to share my opinion of what's in the best interest of America. On the other hand, it has become clear that the Republican Party has crossed the line between the loyal opposition, and subversion.

Flight Suit George

Eric from Covina, CA — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 20:20:03 EDT

Flight Suit George

The revisionists are out in force in an attempt to rewrite history regarding the rein of George W. Bush as president of the United States. But fortunately, the internet is brutally tenacious in recording how the vast majority of Americans really feel about this eminently corrupt and incompetent abomination of American governance. So let us set the record straight--not for vengeance, but for posterity:

Sorry Mr. President, but We’ve Turned too Many Pages Already

Eric from Covina, CA — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 22:08:08 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

Sorry Mr. President, but We’ve Turned too Many Pages Already

President Obama has suggested that we “turn the page” on Republican misdeeds and move the nation forward. The president is a good natured sort, but there is such a thing as being forgiving to a fault, and I think we’ve long since reached that point with the Republican Party. The GOP reminds me of a woman who's been caught committing adultery, then when her husband confronts her with it the next day, she tells him that he's going to destroy their marriage if he doesn't learn to stop dwelling in the past.

It’s time for America to take a long, hard, and objective look at the Republican Party. The American people have been played for fools long enough by these people. Once we begin to take a serious look at the GOP an unmistakable pattern is going to emerge. We’re going to notice the same arguments being put forth by the same names, who are engaging in the very same practices, leading to the same kind of corruption being recycled every generation.

The GOP: A 'Rush' to Obscurity

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 09:29:14 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
The GOP: A 'Rush' to Obscurity

Those of us who pointed out that Michael Steele was elevated to Chairman of the Republican National Committee as both a token, and as attack-dog-in-chief against President Obama should feel completely vindicated. No further evidence need be presented than what recently took place when Mr. Steele had the audacity to say that he was the head of the Republican Party, not Rush Limbaugh. In response Limbaugh all but literally told him to stay in his place.

Limbaugh said, "Yes, said Michael Steele, the chairman of the Republican National Committee, I'm incendiary, and yes, it's ugly. Michael Steele, you are head of the RNC. You are not head of the Republican Party." Limbaugh went on to say, "Tens of millions of conservatives and Republicans have nothing to do with the RNC and right now they want nothing to do with it, and when you call them, asking them for money, they hang up on you."

The Assassination Cartoon

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 02:31:10 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

The Assassination Cartoon

I’m all for freedom of speech, but there are limits. Along with freedom comes responsibility, and the New York Post demonstrated the complete absence of responsibility with the publication of their cartoon depicting the assassination of the President of the United States.

While freedom of speech and expression are indeed a cornerstone of American democracy, it is against the law to shout “fire” in a crowded theater–and with good reason. It is necessary for a free society to protect itself from those who don’t have the common sense to recognize that what they consider funny, or a practical joke, can get people killed. Thus, even in a free society it is sometimes necessary to jail a free citizen for behavior that amounts to criminal stupidity. While I’m not an attorney, I think they call it criminal negligence.

The Republican Leadership–They Just Don't Get it

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:39:42 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

The Republican Leadership–They Just Don't Get it

It is completely unconscionable how far the Republican leadership has strayed from anything resembling responsible governance. While they thrive on their claim of patriotism, their petulant obstructionism during one of the most serious financial crises in American history betrays a total disregard for this nation, and an absolute disdain for the American people. Their childish behavior is nothing short of political malfeasance.

But true to form, they claim that their attempt to sabotage President Obama's rescue program is for America's own good. They claim that they're concerned about reckless spending, and the huge debt that the president's initiative is going to leave our children. But that claim is disingenuous on it's face. Where was that concern when they literally threw away a trillion dollars, off budget, in Iraq–a meaningless war that only served to enrich Republican cronies, and has caused so much wear and tear on the U.S. Military, that it's going to cost us an additional trillion in order for the nation to recover.

The Republican Rape of America

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 04:14:22 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

The Republican Rape of America

The Republican leadership and their corporate cronies have systematically brutalized and raped America. Now they're insisting that we give them a bonus instead of treating our wounds. Those are literally the facts, but why are so many Americans blind to the assault? In short, we've been brainwashed.

The Republican Party has demonstrated repeatedly that they are lousy at governance but there are none better when it comes to marketing their philosophy-and they should be, because they have but one philosophy-to divide and conquer. It would be inaccurate to call them racist, however, because they don't care any more about poor and middle class White people than they do minorities, but neither do they have any qualms about using racism and division to advance their interests.

The Republican Party–a Threat to America

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 11:16:18 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

The Republican Party–a Threat to America

One of the Republican Party's most enduring talking points is that the Bush administration has kept America safe since 9-11, but what evidence do we have of that? Even as the Bush administration bragged about their security efforts, they left both our front and back doors wide open. The two primary entry points into the United States are all but short of a welcome sign.

In testimony before the Senate Finance Committee on September 27, 2007, Greg Kutz of the Government Accountability Office testified that GAO investigators were able to cross into the United States from Canada with a duffle bag filled with contents resembling radioactive material on three different occasions during the fall of 2006. He went on to testify that they did so without encountering even one law enforcement official. And as everyone knows, our Southern border is an absolute sieve. If Jose Garcia can simply walk across the Mexican border into the United States, what's to prevent Osama Abdul from doing exactly the same?

Secretary of the Arts? Sounds Like a Plan

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 06:52:07 EST

Secretary of the Arts? Sounds Like a Plan

Quincy Jones, musician, composer, and arranger extraordinaire, has started a petition that has drawn to date more than 220,000 signatures , asking President Obama to consider adding a Secretary of the Arts as a cabinet level post in his administration.

At first blush that might sound rather frivolous in a nation that's involved in two wars, have people losing their homes, and is currently involved in the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. But when given thoughtful consideration, it might just be exactly what America needs, and could very well turn out to be one of the most important cabinet posts in an Obama administration.

Republicans: "Look Y'all–We Got Us One Too!"

Eric from Covina, CA — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 12:43:09 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

Republicans: "Look Y'all–We Got Us One Too!"

I hate to be cynical, and I certainly hate to drag the issue of race back into the public debate while President Obama and literally millions of Americans of good will are working so hard to put this ugly issue behind us, but where I come from we believe in calling a hat a hat. And the fact is, the Republican Party's selection of Michael Steele as the very first Black chairman of the Republican National Committee in its 153 year history, just reeks of political manipulation.

But I'm virtually certain that my Republican friends are going to say, "We just can't win–first you criticize us for not being inclusive enough, now you're criticize us for electing a Black man as head of the party. Exactly what do we have to do to make you happy?"

Is Rush Limbaugh on Drugs Again, or Simply the World's Biggest Ego Trip?

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:33:05 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

Is Rush Limbaugh on Drugs Again, or Simply the World's Biggest Ego Trip?

Ultra Conservative Political shock jock, Rush Limbaugh, seems to have finally slipped off the reservation. It is hard to know whether he's back on drugs, or if the recent election returns have caused him to lose his mind all together.

In his latest bloviation he's challenging President Obama to enter into negotiations with him on an "Obama-Limbaugh Stimulus Plan," which would divide up a trillion dollars earmarked for stimulating the economy, according to the election returns. Limbaugh reasons that since the President has pledged to take a bipartisan approach to governing, in Limbaugh's view, that entails the president controlling only the percentage of the bailout funds that reflects his margin of victory in the election. In other words, since President Obama won the election by 53% of the vote, he should only control 53% of the bailout funds. The remainder of the funds, that percentage that reflects Sen. McCain's percentage of the vote, should be controlled by none other than Rush himself, to be applied to the economy as way he sees fit.

Sarah:Through the Humble Eyes of a Clueless Hood-Rat

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 08:20:19 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
Sarah:
Through the Humble Eyes of a Clueless Hood-Rat

When you’re raised in the ghetto and you’re either unaware or deprived of the many resources that society has to offer, you learn to make due with what you have. In that regard, I was fortunate enough to recognize at a very early age that the acquisition of knowledge, and the ability to think, is free. So while my economic condition may have restricted me to the ghetto, there was no force on Earth that could limit my mind through the imposition of caste and privilege. If one is determined to seek out knowledge, the opportunities are just as vast at the corner library, as at Harvard University. Thus, one must choose to be ignorant.

Armed with that insight, I tried to compensate for the deficit in my formal education by making every effort to mold myself into the most logical and objective thinker that I was capable of becoming. As a result of that effort, I quickly found that those skills served as a great defense against the condescending hubris of those who presume to be better educated, and more intellectually astute.

YOUR BROTHER IS THE ONE WHO THINKS LIKE YOU

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 02:52:50 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

YOUR BROTHER IS THE ONE WHO THINKS LIKE YOU

The raging controversy over Barack Obama addressing the issue of irresponsible fathers in the Black community, clearly demonstrates that many of the old-school thinkers in the community are living in a time warp. We now have a Black man who is very likely to be the next President of the United States, yet there are those in the community who want him to keep quiet about the fact that we have soiled toilet paper hanging from our inaugural tux. Instead of saying, "Thanks, let me clean up my act", they’re saying, "Why are you picking on me–I saw a White boy with do-do on him too–why didn’t you say something to him?"

I call these people the "Devil worshipers". While these people often refer to the collective White establishment as the Devil, they wake up thinking about him, and go to bed thinking about him. They think the White man is all seeing, all knowing, and control every aspect of our lives. They’re convinced that he has total control over what we learn, what we can’t learn, how we act, and whether or not we can feed our families. While these people generally speak of the White man with either aggressive or dismissive disdain, they fail to recognize that their ceaseless preoccupation with him is actually a form of worship.

OBAMA HAS MY SUPPORT

Eric from Covina, CA — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:43:27 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

OBAMA HAS MY SUPPORT
AS LONG AS HE REMEMBERS WHO’S THE BOSS

I’m both a progressive and Obama supporter, so it goes without saying that I’m deeply disappointed with his reversal on the FISA issue. But the mere fact that Sen. Obama felt it both safe, and necessary, to moonwalk this issue after stating unequivocally that "I am proud to stand with Senator Dodd, Senator Feingold and a grassroots movement of Americans who are refusing to let President Bush put protections for special interests ahead of our security and our liberty", says just as much about what we’ve allowed our political process to become, as it does about Sen. Obama’s inability to stand firm on the convictions that he said he was so proud to embrace.

A JOURNALIST'S FIRST RESPONSIBILITY

Eric from Covina, CA — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 04:19:20 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

A JOURNALIST'S FIRST RESPONSIBILITY:

TO PROTECT HIS FAVORED CANDIDATE, OR THE PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW?

As anyone who has regularly read my column is fully aware, I've been one of Barack Obama's most fervent supporters since hours after he first declared his intention to seek the presidency, and I continue to support that effort. But I was bitterly disappointed with the position he's taken on the FISA bill now before the U.S. Senate, and I've been quite vociferous in making that disappointment known to all who would listen.

On June 20th Senator Barack Obama announced that he was supporting the current FISA bill before the senate. That bill gives retroactive immunity to all telecommunications companies against all private law suits for cooperating with the Bush administration's program of spying on the American people without a court order, as currently required by current law.

OBAMA HAS TURNED THIS DREAM INTO A NIGHTMARE

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 23:35:27 EDT

Eric,

I found your response over the top - emotional and unrealistic. Who would respond to such a challenge, do as I say or I won't send you any money and start my own grass roots organization.

Please, for the first time in our history, we have a candidate who both embraces our people and is fit to lead the entire nation in a world on the brink of collapse. Of course he's a politician. Against his own best interests, that is his chosen profession and it is one of compromise, negotiation and deft balletic performance in a 24 hour news cycle. He will make mistakes and always disappoint somebody, but is that any reason to jump ship?

Before Obama, the concept of "grass roots" was not even in the national lexicon. He has already performed heroic feats by winning the nomination, energizing the electorate, expanding the map and mounting a movement that is prepared to eject the Republicans whose ideology and machinery has done so much damage worldwide. As a journalist, you have power and influence and I would hope an unconditional love for a brother who has welcomed support from those like you and me, building a movement from the bottom up.

His task is to galvanize a nation sorely in need of change, and everybody having a hissy fit on the brink of history in the making, from disgruntled Hillary supporters, neglected Muslims, rampaging preachers and astute journalists needs to have the courage, the hopefulness and the faith that this magical moment is ours for the taking and this man is the vessel of dreams deferred.

The transition will be painful, but that's the nature of rebirth. Take a breath and chill out. FISA ain't done yet. We'll have time over the next 8 years to hold Obama accountable, but now is the time to believe in our power to do so. Resist the urge to divide and be conquered. Most important: get that brother in the White House period.

THE MODERN BLACK MAN:

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 11:29:36 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

THE MODERN BLACK MAN:
21ST CENTURY ARGUMENTS FOR 19TH CENTURY THINKING

Less than three hours after Barack Obama declared his candidacy for presidency, the feeding frenzy began among Black people. It just so happened that Sen. Obama declared his candidacy on the same day as Tavis Smiley’s "State of Black America" national broadcast, and many had the audacity to criticize him for not putting off this historic event so he could appear on Tavis’ broadcast. And during the broadcast--again, on this historic occasion–Dr. Cornel West of Harvard University ranted on national television that the Black community should be asking Obama, "How deep is your love for your people" and "Where is your money coming from?" He indicated that Barack didn’t put this historic event off to appear on Tavis’ broadcast because he had people talking to him that didn’t warrant our trust. And as he was saying these things, Tavis was standing there grinning like a chess cat, prowling a South Georgia cotton field.

That was the moment that Barack Obama got my unwavering support. It was at that very moment that I decided that this man was going to get my vote--and if that vote was wasted, as many suggested it would be at the time, so be it. Because it was on that day, and at that very moment, that I fully recognized the depth of our self-loathing, and psychological corruption of my people.

A RETROSPECTIVE

Eric from Covina, CA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 21:07:10 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
A RETROSPECTIVE:
IS OBAMA BLACK ENOUGH TO WARRANT AFRICAN-AMERICAN SUPPORT?
(Since this writing Dr. West has become a Sen. Obama advisor)
At this writing, it has been less than three hours since Senator Barack Obama has declared his candidacy for President of the United States of America, and already the feeding frenzy has begun. Just once I’d like to see Black people come together without reverting to the old "crabs in a barrel" syndrome. Just once I‘d like see Black people come together and say, yes, he is Black, and Black is good. But we just can’t seem to bring ourselves to do that–and the sad part about it is that we’ve never stopped to examine the reason why.

The fact is, as African Americans we are the product of a racist society–and not just any racist society, but a society that is more efficient in producing subtle racists than any other society that has ever existed on the face of this Earth. Due to the necessity of America’s need to subjugate Black people, while at the same time, live up to the hypocrisy of our "All men are created equal" credo, a form of racism has spontaneously evolved that is so subtle that even Black people have become racist against themselves–and amazingly, without even knowing it. As a direct result, Black people in America hate other Black people just as profoundly, and even more violently, than the most virulent White racist in the South. Clear evidence of that is the fact that of the thousands of homicides committed against Blacks every year, not one perpetrator was reported to have been wearing a sheet.

Can We Call Americans Racist and Still Expect to Get Their Vote?

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:53:46 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

CAN WE CALL AMERICANS RACIST
AND STILL EXPECT TO GET THEIR VOTE?
Michelle Obama made a simple statement-- "For the first time in my adult lifetime, I am really proud of this country"–and one would have thought she declared a jihad on America. FOX news, Rush Limbaugh, and the various other Republican conduits have been harping on it for months now, trying to convince the American people that she’s hated America all of her life. But the fact is, when Michelle Obama made the above statement she was actually complimenting America.
Conservatives are representing her statement as though she said, "For the first time in my adult lifetime I am proud of my country." That implies that she has never been proud of her country before. But that is not what she said at all. She said, "For the first in my adult lifetime, I am really proud of my country." When she used the word "really" as a modifier to the word "proud" it means that she is "exceptionally" or "more proud" of her country than she’s ever been before.

WE DID IT!!!

Eric from Covina, CA — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 04:49:35 EDT

Congratulations, Senator!!!

Now on to the Super Bowl . . . and a new America.

Eric

AN OPEN LETTER TO HILLARY SUPPORTERS

Eric from Covina, CA — Sat, 31 May 2008 14:43:23 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

AN OPEN LETTER TO HILLARY SUPPORTERS

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about the inter-party squabble between Hillary and Obama supporters of late. We may never agree on this particular issue, but I think it’s very important for each faction to understand how the other is thinking, because as the cliche’ goes, we have much more in common than we have that sets us apart.

Yes, many Americans are indeed passionately opposed to Hillary Clinton, but that opposition has absolutely nothing to do with race or gender. African Americans have been Clinton supporters, and defenders, for close to two decades, and in overwhelming numbers. And prior to what has been perceived as racially "insensitive" comments by the Clintons, Hillary was polling as much as 23% over Obama in the black community. And beyond that, African Americans have voted over 95% of the time for white candidates, virtually without exception. So for the Hillary camp to imply that the African American vote is race based is flatly disingenuous–and since there are more female senators and governors than there are blacks in those same positions, it is also clear that the gender issue, relative to Hillary and Obama, is also being manufactured as it applies to America as a whole. The entire issue is being inserted into the political debate through the careful crafting of subliminal messaging to inflame Hillary’s female base.

It kinda Makes You wanna go, Hmmmmm

Eric from Covina, CA — Fri, 30 May 2008 08:34:32 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
It kinda Makes You wanna go, Hmmmmm

President George W. Bush’s former press secretary, Scott McClellan has shocked both the Bush administration and the world by revealing in his new book, "What Happened", that the Bush administration has been manipulating the American people, and the invasion of Iraq was based on a farce.

Oh, really? Well, what else is new?

On September 15, 2002–six months and four days prior to the Iraqi invasion--I published an article entitled "Would Bush’s Saber Rattle as Loudly Against China?", in the Portland Independent Media Center http://Portland.indymedia.org/en/2002/09/21292.shtml –no one else would publish it at the time–that said the following:

IS HILLARY ENGAGED IN SUBLIMINAL MESSAGING?

Eric from Covina, CA — Mon, 26 May 2008 22:00:14 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

IS HILLARY ENGAGED IN SUBLIMINAL MESSAGING?

Beneath the spin has never been more meaningful than it has become during this political season, because it’s beginning to look like Hillary Clinton has taken it’s meaning to a new and very insidious level. After her comment regarding Robert Kennedy’s assassination, I began to consider all the "gaffes" that both she and Bill have been involved in during this campaign, and I’ve found strong evidence that points to the possibility that Hillary has been engaged in the practice of subliminal messaging throughout this campaign. If this is indeed the case, it makes her latest misstatement much more serious than many of us would like to believe.

Subliminal messaging involves sending messages to the subconscious mind that are not picked up on a conscious level. This technique is often used in advertising–sometimes overtly, but at other times very covertly. An example of the overt use of subliminal messaging in advertising is to have a beautiful woman caressing a new car that’s being advertised for sale. Having the woman there caressing the car sends a subliminal message to the subconscious of perspective male buyers that if they buy this car, it will draw beautiful women to them. Another example of overt subliminal advertising is in the use of Michael Jordan to advertise tennis shoes. It sends the message that if you buy these tennis shoes, it will help you to play basketball like Michael Jordan. Neither is necessarily true, but the beauty of subliminal messaging is since the message goes directly to the subconscious, it circumvents the scrutiny of logical thought.

Hillary Supporter Pooh-Poohs the Mention of RFK’s Assassination

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 25 May 2008 10:47:24 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

Hillary Supporter Pooh-Poohs the Mention of RFK’s Assassination
While DNC Continues to Slumber

In his Huffington Post article, "Clinton and RFK Deserve Better", my good friend, Earl Ofari Hutchinson, Pooh-poohs Hillary Clinton’s mention of Robert Kennedy’s assassination in the context of this election, and all the while the DNC slumbers.

What is he suggesting , that she’s sleep deprived again? I think that’s getting kinda old, and I also think that it’s way past time for the DNC to come out of hibernation.

On May 11th while appearing on Meet The Press Hillary’s campaign chairman, Terry McAuliffe, made the same kind of statement to Tim Russert. He said that in order for Hillary to win the nomination "something big" would have to happen. Then Russett asked, "An act of God, or something catastrophic?", and he said, "Yes, something big would have to happen–absolutely."

Hillary’s behavior has betrayed her to be nothing less than America’s version of a Third World demagogue–a woman who is so desperate and hungry for power that the thought of seeing it slip through her fingers has caused her to slip into her own private realm of reality. Personally, I’m seriously concerned that she might have left the ranch and gone camping on us. So at this point it behooves us to take her every utterance dead seriously.

Eric L. Wattree

wattree.blogspot.com

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE DNC: PARTY LOYALTY GOES BOTH WAYS

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 11 May 2008 11:07:57 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE DNC:
PARTY LOYALTY GOES BOTH WAYS
Nervous over the growing fracture in the Democratic Party, the DNC is vigorously reminding Democratic voters of the importance of backing the Democratic nominee in order to win the November election. The problem with their position, however, is the DNC is placing all of the responsibility for Democratic success on the voters, while skirting its own responsibility to act in an appropriate and decisive manner. They don’t seem to recognize that party loyalty goes both ways.

HILLARY, WHAT’S THE POINT?

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:49:58 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

HILLARY, WHAT’S THE POINT?

After Tuesday’s primary results I had hoped that I had written the name Hillary Clinton for the last time during this election. But in spite of the fact that there is virtually no legitimate path for her to gain the nomination, she simply refuses to see the writing on the wall. Thus, she appealed to the superdelegates on Wednesday for yet more time to defy the will of the electorate.

It has been reported that Hillary’s campaign is running badly in the red, so she’s invested an additional 6 million dollars of her own money into her effort for the nomination, bringing her personal loan to the campaign to 11 million dollars. That has led to speculation that she is trying to hold out to strike a deal with Obama to both get reimbursement for her personal loan to the campaign, and also have Obama pay off her remaining debt in return for leaving the race. There is also speculation that she’s trying to position herself for a spot on the Obama ticket as vice president.

CLINTON CREDIBILITY: A CONTRADICTION IN TERMS

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 06 May 2008 22:23:53 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
CLINTON CREDIBILITY:
A CONTRADICTION IN TERMS

Why are Democrats tolerating Hillary Clinton’s selfish juggernaut to destroy the Democratic Party? You’re sitting around allowing your nomination process to be corrupted, then asking, "Why can’t Obama close the deal?" Open your eyes. The man is fighting Hillary, Bill, the entire Republican Party, plus Rush Limbaugh and the entire FOX news staff.

No wonder Democrats can’t win an election. The Republicans must be falling down backwards laughing at your stupidity. Isn’t there anyone left with enough common sense to see that your acting as accessories to Hillary’s collusion with the Republican Party to sabotage the November election?

THE REV. WRIGHT IS WRONG

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:06:14 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
THE REV. WRIGHT IS WRONG:
IT IS GOD’S WILL THAT WE USE COMMON SENSE
Most people who have any interest at all in Sen. Obama’s campaign for president are scratching their heads over what could possibly be governing Rev. Wright’s decision to go public at this time. When I first learned that the reverend was being interviewed by Bill Moyers, I naturally assumed that he and the Obama campaign had decided upon a strategy of allowing the American people to see who the reverend really is, in order to offset the media portrayal of him. While I could understand the rationale behind such a move, it seemed to me that it was an extremely risky endeavor, and ill advised. Then I learned that not only was Rev. Wright being interviewed by Bill Moyers, but he was also going before the National Press Club, and all on his own accord, without bringing Obama into the loop. It was only then that I realized that we had a loose cannon on our hands, and we were also facing yet another political disaster.

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE SUPERDELEGATES

Eric from Covina, CA — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 11:22:26 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE SUPERDELEGATES

I realize that many of you feel that you owe the Clintons your loyalty, and others are waiting to ensure that you act in the Democratic Party’s best interest, but when is enough enough? Even the most rabid Clinton supporters have to recognize by now that Hillary can’t possibly secure the Democratic nomination without literally tearing the Democratic Party apart–and Hillary knows that better than anyone. So it must be clear to everyone by now that Hillary is no longer in this race to win. Hillary’s sole purpose at this point is to stay in the race as long as she can, and sling enough mud on Barack Obama to prevent him from winning in November. Then, since at McCain’s age he’s not expected to remain in office but one term, Hillary will still be young enough to run in 2012. I’ve mentioned Hillary’s strategy before, but it bears repeating, since it stands as a monument to mean-spirited selfishness.

FALL OF THE HOUSE OF CLINTON

Eric from Covina, CA — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 01:15:00 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
FALL OF THE HOUSE OF CLINTON

Hillary Clinton's ravenous ambition and sense of entitlement has clearly blinded her to reality. If she wasn't so blinded by the arrogance of believing that America owes her the presidency, she'd realize that her antics in this election is not only undermining any chance she has of becoming president, but it's also wreaking havoc on the Clinton legacy. The one thing the Clintons had going for them was America's belief that, with all their flaws, they were primarily motivated by what was in America's best interest. But that's no longer the case. Now we see the Clintons for what they are–a couple who's willing to lie, cheat and steal to promote their own greed and self-interest. That, in turn, has caused many Americans to take a second look at both, their character, and Bill's presidency through the lense of this new information, and a large number of them don't like what they see.

Now, many Americans are beginning to ask themselves questions, like how can we trust Hillary to answer that call at 3 a.m. When she seems to be totally oblivious to facts that are staring her in the face–especially when those facts don't conform to what she wants to see? For example, doesn't she realize that by continuously slinging mud at Obama instead of addressing the issues that it's making her look desperate and less than concerned about the fate of the Democratic Party? And what about her judgment? What could she have possibly been thinking when she repeatedly endorsed the Republican nominee over Obama? Then there was the Bosnian matter. Didn't she realize before she told that blatant lie about the Bosnian trip that there were news cameras there to document that she was lying? And if that wasn't stupid enough, she then went on The Tonight Show and tried to joke about it, as though lying to the American people was all in fun. Now, as a direct result of that lie, a Pew research survey indicates that 29% of Democrats asked describes Hillary as phony. In addition, she's also placed herself in a position where every syllable she utters, and every scrap of paper she releases is going to be scrutinized with a fine tooth comb--and that doesn't bode well, considering her dubious past.

IF WE ALLOW OUR BEST TO BE DRAGGED THROUGH THE MUD . . .

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 22:43:52 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
IF WE ALLOW OUR BEST TO BE DRAGGED THROUGH THE MUD
THE AVERAGE AMERICAN DOESN’T HAVE A CHANCE

Along with the ability to inspire, a president should have the intelligence to see the big picture, the maturity to handle power, and the class to ensure that his or her own personal needs remain secondary to that of the people. This election process has given us an excellent opportunity to assess those qualities in both candidates, and while Hillary Clinton has demonstrated that she is an exceptionally intelligent woman, she’s also demonstrated that she leaves much to be desired in the area of maturity and class. If we’ve learned nothing else about Hillary during these primaries, we’ve learned that nothing is more important to her than becoming President of the United States–not the nation, not the people, and certainly not the Democratic Party. Hillary has shown that she is more than willing to throw the entire Democratic Party under the bus–along with the Senate, Congress, and the Supreme Court--if it means she’ll end up sitting in the Oval Office.

Hillary’s behavior has been so radically single-minded during these primaries that it sounds like I’m indulging in hyperbole, but the facts will bear me out. Essentially, Senator Obama has won the primaries–he’s won more states, he’s won the popular vote, and he has an insurmountable lead in pledged delegates. If Hillary won all of the remaining primaries, she’d still fall short of Obama’s lead. Hillary knows that quite well, and she also knows that the longer she slings mud at Obama, the greater the chances the Democratic Party, along with many of its elected officials, will go down in defeat. So the classy thing for her to do would be to swallow her pride and encourage her supporters to get behind Senator Obama’s candidacy with all of the enthusiasm that they’ve brought to her campaign. But instead, she’s endorsed the Republican candidate as more qualified to be president than Obama, and she continues to sling mud in the vain hope that she can hurt Obama so badly that his candidacy will lose all viability. She’s calculated that if she hurts Obama badly enough, even if the party doesn’t nominate her by default, Obama will lose the general election. That way, since there won’t be a Democratic incumbent in the race, she’ll still be young enough to run in 2012.

That’s not only a cynically self-centered agenda, but it’s exactly the kind of selfish immaturity that we currently have running the country with George Bush–and it’s also the kind of politics that we’re so desperately trying to get away from. In addition to that, her Bosnian chronicle demonstrates that she’s willing to lie to the American people without cause or provocation. Is that the kind of person we want heading the Democratic Party? And after already being embarrassed by first, her husband, then Bush, is that the kind of flawed character that we want representing America before the world?

JEREMIAH AND AMERICA'S BLIND SPOT

Eric from Covina, CA — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 01:17:34 EDT

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
JEREMIAH AND AMERICA’S BLIND SPOT

The American media has become absolutely fixated on Rev. Jeremiah Wright. How could he say what he did bout America? Why didn’t Senator Obama storm out of the church in protest? And how can Barack Obama be the man he claims to be and embrace such a man? These are all questions that might have also been asked of another man and his supporters over two thousand years ago, and just as then, the answer is short and sweet–because the man speaks the truth.

The controversy over Rev. Wright’s sermon says much more about America’s blind spot than it does about either Rev. Wright, or Sen. Obama. Because while the words were indeed ugly, the truth therein was as pure as virgin snow. Thus, the problem is not with Rev. Wright or Sen. Obama, the problem is with America’s inability to handle the truth, and as long as that continues to be the case, America is doomed to be led by demagogues whose claim on leadership will be based on lies, and the very worst in an otherwise great nation.

HILLARY HOLDS DEMOCRATS HOSTAGE

Eric from Covina, CA — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 12:00:38 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
HILLARY HOLDS DEMOCRATS HOSTAGE
Blank statement: Hillary Clinton does not deserve the Democratic Nomination for president–in fact, based on what these primaries have revealed of her character, she doesn’t even deserve her seat in the senate.
While Hillary has long since switched to the Democrat Party, recent weeks have clearly demonstrated that her Republican inclination towards cutthroat politics, shallow character and deceit remains firmly in tact. Compelling evidence of that is the CBS News report indicating that Hillary said, both she and Senator John McCain offer the experience to respond to a crisis, while Barack Obama only offers rhetoric. Specifically, the report quoted her as saying, "He’s [John McCain’s] never been the president, but he will put forth his lifetime of experience. I will put forth my lifetime of experience. Senator Obama will put forth a speech he made in 2002." That is the most mean-spirited and irresponsible remark that one Democrat can make about another prior to a national election. With that statement she has essentially–no, in fact-- endorsed Republican, John McCain over Barack Obama if she fails to get the Democratic nomination.

THE 2008 STATE OF THE BLACK UNION

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 10:53:53 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
THE 2008 STATE OF THE BLACK UNION
I had the pleasure of watching Tavis Smiley’s entire production of the "2008 State of the Black Union" on CSPAN last week–and as usual, it was quite entertaining. But while I throughly enjoyed the show, I failed to see the urgency of having Senator Barack Obama in attendance. I could see it if the scholars, politicians, and community leaders in attendance were actually involved in a sober discussion of the Black condition and ways to move the community forward, but that wasn’t what it was at all. What it generally turns out to be–and it was true to form this year–is a cross between the Def Philosophy Jam, an infomercial for Tavis Smiley Enterprises, and a Southern revival meeting ("Say amen, Black folk"). That’s not the appropriate venue for a man who’s trying to convince America that he’s a serious contender for President of ALL of the United States. So I don’t blame Obama a bit for not attending.
Admittedly, every year there are serious people with serious things to say in attendance, but every year there are also a host of people in attendance who are flamboyant, grandiloquent, and simply love to hear themselves talk. There were moments in this year’s proceedings, for example, that sounded more like a Mack-man’s convention than anything else. While I enjoyed it, I also enjoy Thelonious Monk, but there are literally millions of voters across this land who share neither my taste in music, nor my understanding of the polyrhythmic pronouncements of Michael Eric Dyson, no matter how profound the underlying message. Thus, Senator Obama had to ask himself a very serious question–Do I want to be elected president, or simply hold up a raised fist for Black America? How would you answer that?
Yes, Senator Clinton did attend–but at this point, Hillary would attend a dog fight if she thought it would get her an extra vote. When Hillary put out a video claiming the endorsement of Ann Richards--the former governor of Texas who’s been dead for a year and a half--that made it clear that she’s willing to do anything to become president. And besides, Hillary didn’t have anything to lose by attending. The voters knew she was just humoring Black people–or in this case, Tavis–thinking that might help her to get Black votes, which in itself should give us pause. Does she really think that Black people are so shallow that catering to the whims of a talk show host would be enough to get our vote? If she did, judging from her lukewarm reception, now she knows better. Obama, on the other hand, had everything to lose. Being a Black candidate, if some loose cannon on that stage (and their were many of them) happened to say something outrageous, Obama would have had to spend the next three weeks disavowing the remark. So as far as I’m concerned, his decision to decline Tavis’ invitation showed excellent judgement–presidential Judgement.

DICK GREGORY

Eric from Covina, CA — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 14:01:49 EST

Dick Gregory at the State of the Black Union:

"You told Bill Clinton he was Black, then you told Barack Obama he wasn't Black enought. You must be a fool."

Eric L. Wattree

wattree.blogspot.com

RESPONSE

Eric from Covina, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:09:08 EST

IN RESPONSE TO: WILL THE REAL HILLARY CLINTON PLEASE STAND UP?
VEDYA:

You guys don't need a boot in the....., half are doing that job on their own, the other have that space already occupied with their heads.

I respect that you are an Obama supporter, just not of the kind that regurgitates this drivle over and over and over.......We are all democrats, many if not most can agree that Hillary's appearance last night was stellar, and the same can say that Obama is an intelligent man, she said she was proud to be there with him, that says more about her character, than words can say. Please stop, I'm trying to stay on the wagon and not fall back into to pen of swill.

WATTREE:

Yes, she did say nice things at the end, but that was after she tried every other tactic and it didn't work.

I'm with you--we should take this sniping out of this election. As a matter of fact, I wrote a post last year suggesting such before it got started. But the Hillary campaign determined that since Obama's strong suit is remaining above the fray, they could attack him with impunity, and he was precluded from responding without losing his lustre. But what they failed to consider was that his supporters are not limited in the same way that he is--and they are, for the most part, highly educated and fully capable of doing the research to drag Hillary through the mud. So we've placed the ball in her court. Thus, if Hillary wants to run a clean campaign and deal with the issues, we'd love to accommodate her. But if she wants to indulge in mud slinging, we will accommodate her in that regard as well.

ED:

How is this a new way of conducting politics? If you say you are for a higher standard in politics, then lead by example.

This entire post can be viewed as an attack on Hillary, and encompasses the sane old negativity it proclaims to be against. This provides more ammo Republicans can use against her if she is the nominee. I agree with what you're saying, but not with what you are doing.

WATTREE:

While Obama supporters would love to take the high road, we address the hand we are dealt. That is the same tact that Obama will use to deal with America's adversaries in the world at large. If they want to be reasonable, he'll be happy to accommodate, but if they want to play hardball, he can also play that game with the best of 'em. Obama supporters understand that efficient thought requires that we first, address reality as it is, and only then, as we would have it. In other words, we talk softly, but carry a big stick.

Eric L. Wattree

WILL THE REAL HILLARY CLINTON PLEASE STAND UP?

Eric from Covina, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:20:37 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
WILL THE REAL HILLARY CLINTON PLEASE STAND UP?

After seven years of agony during the Bush administration, America has learn that the most important characteristics to look for in a president is good character and common sense. We’ve learned, in a most painful way, that if a president lacks either of these qualities, everything else is meaningless. These past seven years have taught us that putting our hatred, ignorance, and self-service ahead of the best interest of the country can bring us all down. Thus, when the voters turned out the Republicans in the 2006 election, it was over character, and the current rallying cry across this land for change, is actually about electing a president with good character and common sense. Barack Obama’s meteoric rise to national prominence is America’s way of saying we are tired of the old self-serving, cutthroat, win-at-any-price type politics of the past. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us all to watch what takes place in the next two weeks very closely.

Barack Obama has Hillary Clinton on the ropes. He’s blown the heretofore presumptive presidential nominee out of the water by large margins in the last ten states of the primary election. He’s also won among Americans voting outside the country. Even Bill Clinton has acknowledged that if Hillary doesn’t get a win in Texas, she won’t get the presidential nomination. So in the next two weeks her character, and the kind of experience she brings to the table will be on display. If she’s truly committed to change, and what’s in the best interest of the United States, we’ll see a lady engaged in a valiant, yet, clean fight for the nomination. But if the "experience" she so often speaks of is of the old-style, me-first, America-be-damned kind of politics of the past, we’re going to see a lot of lying, desperate mudslinging, and win-at-any-cost kind of tactics. Personally, I’m betting on the latter–in fact, it’s no longer a bet, she’s already started.

AN APPOINTMENT WITH DESTINY

Eric from Covina, CA — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 03:17:37 EST

AN APPOINTMENT WITH DESTINY

You’re slipping, Hutch. Your lack of customary objectivity has finally betrayed your loyalties. I came to your site to comment on your Huffington Post article, "What Will Obama Do When There's No Hillary Firewall?", only to find another article that was even more partisan. In the first article you dug up everything you could think of that you indicate Republicans will be able to use against Obama in the November election--and you were right. In fact, you were so effective, that you all but built the Republicans a tailor-made swift boat. You’ve rendered the Republican Party a tremendous service in that article. As a result of your article alone, they can fire all of their researchers--you’ve done all of their research for them. And now I find your most recent article, "What to Make of Obama’s Strange Bedfellows, Namely Blacks and White Males." In that article you imply that Black people, along White males, have come together in a sexist coalition against Hillary to support Obama. In your final paragraph you say the following:

"Even if unconscious gender bias affects only a relatively small percent of men in a close contest between a male and female candidate in which the two are rated fairly evenly in competence, qualifications and experience, the refusal of many men to vote for her could harm her candidacy. Female candidates offset the male bias by getting solid support from women voters." But I think you made a few typos in your last sentence. Didn’t you mean to say, "Female[s][should] offset the male bias by [giving] solid support from women voters"?

EXPERIENCE, WHAT EXPERIENCE?

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 17:22:52 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
EXPERIENCE, WHAT EXPERIENCE?
I have nothing against Hillary Clinton--I'm less than happy with several of her votes, but I'm sure I'd feel the same about any politician that I examined closely enough. But what does rub me the wrong way is this experience sham that she's trying to promote--it's fully transparent, and clearly designed to mislead the politically naive. The problem is, if she's trying to pull the wool of the eyes of some, why should I believe anything she says?

But I try not to get too worked up about it, because the hardcore Hillary supporters are doing more to help the Obama campaign than they can possibly imagine. Actually, if they didn't exist, Obama would do well to pay people to play their role. All of the finger pointing, mudslinging, and anger that they're bringing to this campaign is exactly what the American people want to get away from.

I’M A SELLOUT FOR SUPPORTING A NON-SLAVE?

Eric from Covina, CA — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 13:37:22 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE
I’M A SELLOUT FOR SUPPORTING A NON-SLAVE?

My good brother, I’ve heard some uniquely original ideas about why Black people shouldn’t support Barack Obama, but I must admit, you’ve all but stumped me here. It is your position that I’m selling out for supporting Obama, not because his mother was White, but because his father is from Africa, therefore, Obama is not a true son of slavery. You indicate, that’s why White people are supporting him–it’s a racist plot to first, preclude a son of slavery from becoming the first Black president of the United States, and second, to get African Americans to embrace someone who looks like us, but is not truly one of us. Therefore, by supporting Obama, we dishonor those African Americans who were forced to suffer in bondage. But you go on to say–-and this is the part that I like about your thinking–-that your mind remains open, so you’re ready to be convinced that your wrong.

I received your e-mail last night, but instead of giving in to the knee-jerk tendency to immediately respond, I thought I'd take the night to respectfully consider some of the issues you've brought to the table. In doing so I've come to the conclusion that our positions are not as far apart as it may seem at first blush. First of all, while I do honor the contribution that the African motherland contributed to who I am, I fully agree that the plight of African American slaves is often overlooked and, indeed, ignored as an embarrassment when we consider our journey as a people. I've been pushing that position for years. In fact, it is more than ironic that one of my position that you object to most--that African Americans make up a new and distinct culture that is in the infancy of its development--was from an article that I wrote in response to an Earl Ofari Hutchinson article about ten years ago (Our History Lies Before Us).

WHEN I LOOK AT BARACK OBAMA

Eric from Covina, CA — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 09:44:22 EST

BENEATH THE SPIN • ERIC L. WATTREE, SR.

WHEN I LOOK AT BARACK OBAMA

When I look at Barack Obama, I not only wonder why every Black person in America isn't supporting him, but why they aren't jumping up and down with glee at the opportunity. I've had many people tell me--both Black and White--that I'm just supporting Obama because he's Black. True, I am supporting Obama because he's Black, but not ONLY because he's Black. I'm supporting Barack Obama because in spite of being blessed with Black skin, and all the disadvantages that entails, this brother has managed to rise head and shoulders above the very best this society has to offer. That not only empowers him, but it also allows Black youth to embrace their Blackness with a lot more genuine pride. It allows them say, and more importantly, think, "Yes, I'm Black, and you're damn right I am somebody! I'm the product of a great and resilient people. That's very important for young people, because as the Bible points out, "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he."

So, no, I don't support Obama just because he's Black–I support him because he's Black, on top of all his other fine qualities. Both Jesse and Sharpton are also Black, and I didn't support either of them. But this is different. When Barack Obama stepped upon the world stage, I could feel a change in the air, like something important had just happened, or a significant presence had just entered the room. I felt like, for the briefest moment the world fell still, except for a gentle wind. Then I looked up to see a lone figure standing on the horizon.

And I wasn't alone--White folks across this land also felt it. When the change started to take hold, I noticed that in places that would have met Martin with attack dogs and fire hoses, White people were jumping up and down, smiling and singing--some of them with tears in their eyes--straining just to touch this young Black man. That's when I knew it was happening--I knew a change was coming eventually, but not like this.

He came fast, and out of nowhere like a thief in the night–far from the Messiah, but like a man who knew his time had come. Then, like in that Phil Collins song, I could feel it comin' in the air, oh Lord! It was clear there was something different going on here--something that's been in the cards every since that first slave looked to the sky and said, "Please help us, dear Lord."

WHY HILLARY'S DOG DON'T HUNT

Eric from Covina, CA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 06:17:35 EST

WHY HILLARY'S DOG DON'T HUNT
Hillary managed to pull her carcass out of the fire in the New Hampshire Primary. But her 39 to 36 percent victory over Senator Obama seems rather shallow when you consider that she was seen as the presumptive Commander-in-Chief in waiting just prior to the Iowa caucuses. In just a few short weeks Hillary has gone from the anointed one to a woman who was, literally, brought to tears over concern for her political career—and those very tears points out an issue that begs to be examined.

If Hillary's tears were genuine (and that's a big IF), we need to ask ourselves whether or not she has the emotional strength to handle the job of President of the United States. If she breaks down into tears under the stress of simply running for the job, what can we expect from her under the awesome responsibility of actually doing the job? Some may say that's a cheap shot that's only being leveled at her because she's a woman, but actually, it's a sword that cuts both ways. If Barack Obama would have broken down under similar circumstances, his candidacy would have been over. So when we're discussing the most powerful job in the world, we can't think in terms of whether the candidate is a man or a woman, we must look at their character, strength, and stability alone—and that's exactly what my question seeks to address.
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